A battered guitar that belonged to Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain has sold at auction for nearly $600,000, more than its initial estimate.
The guitar was famously smashed on stage by Nirvana lead singer Kurt Cobain. Broken during a live performance, the Black Fender Stratocaster was repaired but is no longer playable.
Signed by all three members of Nirvana during their rise to global fame, the instrument exceeded the auction house’s initial estimate of $60,000. The auction house had estimated the sale price at $60,000 but was surprised by the final bid, given the instrument’s importance and Cobain’s impact on the music industry.
The ongoing auction also includes memorabilia from other famous artists such as Eddie Van Halen, Elvis Presley, and Freddie Mercury.
Cody Frederick of Julien’s Auctions, speaking earlier this month, pointed out the apparent damage done to the guitar by Cobain’s aggressive stage presence. Cobain was known for his intense performances, characterized by anger and a raw energy that audiences could feel. The broken guitar, seen as a symbol of Cobain’s tumultuous and musically influential era, holds significant historical significance.
Nirvana, with Cobain as primary songwriter, produced hits such as “Come Like You,” “Lithium” and the breakout 1991 hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” The latter became an anthem for a generation of disaffected youth. Cobain battled substance addiction and depression throughout his life and had a tumultuous relationship with his wife, Courtney Love. Tragically, he took his own life in April 1994, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
The three-day auction, which ends on Sunday, also includes memorabilia from other legendary artists such as Eddie Van Halen, Elvis Presley, Freddie Mercury, Bill Wyman and Janet Jackson. This event offers fans and collectors a unique opportunity to own a piece of music history associated with these influential figures.
The remarkable sales of Cobain’s broken guitar underscore the enduring appeal and value of rock memorabilia, as well as the profound impact Cobain and Nirvana had on the music world. It serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of an artist who expressed his emotions and frustrations through his music and stage presence.